Where the Camino ends, Santiago de Compostela begins. This beautiful, historic city is packed with life, energy, and things to do all year round, with a vibe that makes you feel instantly at home. So throw on your best peregrino spirit and comfy shoes because there’s plenty to see and do in Santiago de Compostela! Plus, its perfect location makes it easy to explore other must-visit spots in Galicia, making it a great base for your adventures.
And let’s not forget Santiago is one of the best spots to eat in Northern Spain, especially if you’re all about seafood. Galicia’s fish and seafood are on another level—seriously, you won’t find anything like it anywhere else. Some of the city’s must-try dishes include pulpo a la gallega, percebes (yep, goose barnacles), empanada gallega, and the iconic tarta de Santiago. Also, don’t you dare leave without trying zamburiñas: a type of small, tender scallop, like heaven on a plate, found only in Galicia and Asturias.
Brief History of Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia, started out as just a stop on a Roman road. But in the early 9th century, the discovery of the tomb of Saint James turned it into a major Christian pilgrimage destination. Since then, thousands of pilgrims from across Europe have walked their way here, seeking absolution.
One of the top cities in Northern Spain, Santiago grew around its stunning Romanesque cathedral, later blending in elements of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Today, you can explore monasteries, pilgrim hospitals, palaces, countless churches, and grand homes, all part of the city’s rich historical legacy
Santiago is one of Christianity’s top three pilgrimage sites, alongside Jerusalem and Rome. In fact, just to give you an idea, Santiago de Compostela welcomed half a million pilgrims in 2024 alone. But it also attracts tourists for its stunning architectural legacy, which spans over 500 years. For this reason and many others, Santiago de Compostela is one of our favorite spots to visit in Northern Spain.
Things to Do in Santiago de Compostela | Map
On this map, you’ll find all the things to do in Santiago de Compostela mentioned in this post. The landmarks are clickable, giving you a quick explanation in case you need a refresher on what to see.
10 Must-see Spots in Santiago de Compostela’s Old Town
Let’s start with the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest, most monumental neighborhood to explore in Santiago de Compostela.
1. Plaza del Obradoiro
I would definitely start at the iconic Plaza del Obradoiro. Trust me, the vibe here is unique, and the baroque facade of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela will have you staring in awe. This building dominates the square, greeting thousands of pilgrims every day. You’ll see them crying, laughing, lying in the middle of the plaza, staring at the sky, taking group photos, or snapping selfies to remember the journey they’ve just completed. It’s pretty emotional to witness these moments of joy, and, without a doubt, it’ll make you want to come back to Santiago—this time, by foot.
Surrounding the square, you’ll find some of the most important buildings in Santiago. The Cathedral is the most popular, but all of them are pretty amazing. The Hostal de los Reyes Católicos was once a pilgrims’ hospital; similarly, the Colegio de San Xerome is home to the university rectorate, and the Palacio de Raxoi is Santiago’s City Hall. Together, these buildings represent everything Santiago stands for: religion, education, hospitality for pilgrims and travelers, and government.
2. Hostal de los Reyes Católicos
The beautiful Hostal de los Reyes Católicos was built in 1501 to provide shelter to pilgrims who were absolutely wrecked after their Camino journey. Today, it’s a Parador—a chain of semi-public hotels that restore historical buildings and turn them into places to stay. By the way, since it’s a national heritage site, you can usually wander around the public areas, like the gardens and courtyards, even if you’re not staying there. Just ask at reception.
Visit: You can visit the inner courtyards and the chapel.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, Sunday: 12:00-14:00 / 16:00-18:00
Admission Fee: €3 (Free on Mondays)
3. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela was built between 1075 and 1211 to house the tomb of the Apostle Saint James. It’s a mix of Romanesque style with Baroque and Gothic elements, and it’s got 16 chapels. You can enter through the Puerta de Platerías anytime, but if you’re lucky enough to be there during a Holy Year, you can go in through the Puerta Santa.
But the real crown jewel of the cathedral is the Pórtico de la Gloria, a masterpiece of 12th-century universal art. Since it’s a protected site, access is controlled, and you’ll need to request a free invitation. Guided tours in English are available too.
Inside the cathedral, don’t miss the stunning Botafumeiro, a giant incense burner weighing 50 kilos that swings during certain religious ceremonies.
One of the most popular things to do in Santiago de Compostela is hug the statue of Saint James. We didn’t do it because we’re not religious, so hugging a statue didn’t really make sense to us, but it’s located at the back of the High Altar for anyone who wants to give it a try.
The cathedral also houses the Museo Catedralicio, with paintings and tapestries, the Crypt, the Sala Capitular, the Library, the Cloister, and the Treasure. It also gives you access to the upper floors for some pretty epic views of the city.
Individual Visit: You can visit the interior of the cathedral, including the crypt, and the Pórtico de la Gloria. Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 9:00-19:30 / Sunday: 9:00-14:00.
Admission Fee: Free (Special guided tours and access to the Pórtico de la Gloria require booking in advance).
4. Plaza de Platerías
Plaza de Platerías gets its name (“Silversmiths’ Square”) from the jewelry workshops that once lined its edges. They sold silver amulets and similar items to pilgrims visiting the city. Interestingly, even today, several jewelry shops can still be found in this square. The square is located on the southern side of the Cathedral, and it’s home to the building’s only remaining Romanesque façade.
It’s also one of the most beautiful places to visit in Santiago de Compostela, with highlights like the Baroque Casa del Deán, once a guesthouse for visiting bishops, and the Horse Fountain, an elegant centerpiece.
🏛️Museum of Pilgrimages and Santiago
In Plaza de Platerías you will find this museum dedicated to the evolution of the pilgrimage routes to Santiago’s tomb since the Early Middle Ages. It’s packed with rooms showcasing images, objects, and documents that tell the story of how the pilgrimage started and grew. You’ll also learn how the different routes were formed and how the pilgrimages helped shape the city’s development. It’s one of those things to do in Santiago de Compostela if you want to get deeper into the city’s history and its connection to the Camino.
5. Plaza de la Quintana
This large square is divided into two areas. Quintana de Muertos (“Square of the Dead”), a cemetery until 1780, while Quintana de Vivos (“Square of the Living”) has broad stone steps offer the perfect resting spot for pilgrims and visitors. Overlooking it all is the 75-meter-high clock tower, home to Berenguela, the Cathedral’s largest bell.
On this square, you’ll find the Monastery of San Paio de Antealtares, originally built to safeguard the Apostle’s remains. Since the 15th century, it has been home to cloistered Benedictine nuns who still bake traditional sweets. Definitely a unique souvenir, don’t you think? If you want to buy some, head to the other side of the convent, where they sell them through a small rotating window. Remember to bring cash though, because I highly doubt they take American Express!
During Xacobeo (holy Year), one of the most memorable things to do in Santiago de Compostela is sitting at a terrace in this square to watch thousands of pilgrims enter the Cathedral through the Holy Door.
⭐El peregrín escondido
If you ever get the chance to walk through Plaza de la Quintana at night, keep an eye out for the hidden pilgrim’s shadow. When the cathedral lights up, a shadow is cast on a monolith—which is actually just the grounding point for the cathedral’s clock tower. Of course, this has sparked endless legends.
The most famous one? A priest, madly in love with a nun, planned to run away with her. Disguised as a pilgrim to avoid suspicion, he waited for her all night in the square… but she never showed up. Now, his shadow remains, forever waiting for his lost love.
Legends aside, the shadow really does look like a pilgrim!
6. Plaza de Cervantes
Climb up from Plaza de la Quintana, and you’ll eventually land in Plaza de Cervantes, named after the legendary writer. In case you flunked World Literature, Miguel de Cervantes was the author of Don Quixote. His bust sits atop a fountain, quietly watching over this charming square.
Back in the 12th century, it was called Plaza del Foro, where the town crier would announce the latest news. Today, it’s a lively spot surrounded by historical buildings, including the Baroque-style Iglesia de San Bieito and the Old Town Hall.
7. Pazo de Fonseca: The Birthplace of the University
This building is one of the key landmarks in Santiago de Compostela because it’s where the city’s university began. Archbishop de Fonseca built it in the 16th century, with a bit of help from his ultra-wealthy and powerful family. Be sure to check out the impressive Renaissance façade, featuring the Fonseca family crest.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00-14:00 / 17:00-20:30 / Sunday: 11:00-14:00
Admission Fee: Free
8. San Martin Pinario Monastery
Founded by Benedictine monks in the 10th century, this monastery is a jaw-dropper, especially its grand façade and church. It’s actually one of the most important Baroque sites in Galicia, right up there with the Cathedral. These days, it serves as an archive, seminary, and university residence.
If you visit in summer, you can join a guided tour between 11:00 and 19:00.
9. Convent of San Francisco
St. Francis of Assisi himself ordered the construction of this 13th-century monastery. Legend has it that he entrusted the task to a local charcoal burner named Cotolay, who miraculously found a treasure to fund the project. The original structure didn’t survive past the 18th century, so what you see today is a blend of Baroque and Neoclassical styles.
Right next door is Café Costa Vella, an absolute must. Sitting on its terrace with a coffee (or something stronger) is one of the best things to do in Santiago de Compostela.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00-13:00 / 16:00-19:00
Admission Fee: Free
10. Santiago de Compostela’s Abastos Market
This market has been a fresh produce hotspot for three centuries in Santiago. These days, the lively square is buzzing with good vibes. People fill the narrow aisles, on the lookout for fresh seafood or a tasty, wallet-friendly meal with friends.
There are high bars and stools where you can dig into local delicacies. Some say they serve the best octopus in Santiago. We can’t confirm or deny that because, let’s face it, we haven’t tasted every octopus in Santiago (yet). But yes, we’re on it, so stay tuned.
Casa Millán is your go-to for traditional Galician dishes, while A Ostrería is all about fresh seafood. And at places like Mariscomanía, they’ll cook your seafood right there for you to enjoy on the spot. You’ll also find international flavors, like the Japanese tapas at Taberna Abastos.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
More Things to Do in Santiago de Compostela
Plaza del Toural
The mansions around Toural Square, with their iron balconies and noble family coats of arms, give you a glimpse into Santiago’s traditional architecture. Right in front of the 1822 fountain, you’ll find the Pazo de Bendaña. Look up at the top of this 18th-century palace and you’ll see Atlas holding up the sky.
One standout feature is the massive glass galleries on one of the buildings, a classic element of Northern Spanish architecture. In winter, they warm up the room next door by letting sunlight in while the windows stay closed. In summer, simply open the small side windows to let the air flow and cool down the space.
Museo do Pobo Galego
If you’ve got some extra time, the Museo do Pobo Galego is definitely worth a visit, even though it’s a bit outside the historic center. It gives you a deep dive into Galician culture and lifestyle through the ages. Its triple-helix staircase is total Instagram material.
General entrance: 5€ / Reduced: 2€ (for those over 65 or students over 18).
Free on Sundays and every day for under 18s.
Hours: Tues-Sat: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Sundays and holidays: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.
Parque de la Alameda
Looking for more things to do in Santiago de Compostela? Head to Parque de la Alameda for a killer shot of the city.
The park is packed with oaks, eucalyptus, and chestnut trees, and you’ll also find statues of famous writers like Rosalía de Castro and Valle-Inclán. But honestly, the real highlight is the statue of Las dos Marías. These two sisters became legends in Santiago for their quirky fashion and flirty antics with university guys.
Day Trips to Do from Santiago de Compostela
If you’re in Galicia and wondering what to do, visiting its stunning pazos should be high on your must-see list. Pazo is the Galician word for a manor house, similar to the villas of Tuscany.
These grand estates, mostly built between the 17th and 19th centuries, were once home to Galician nobility. Some look like medieval fortresses, others like fairy-tale palaces, and many have been transformed into museums, wineries, or luxury hotels. If you’re near Santiago de Compostela, here are a couple worth checking out:
Pazo do Faramello
Just a short drive from Santiago, the beautiful Pazo do Faramello is a Baroque-style manor that offers a glimpse into three centuries of Galician history. Surrounded by lush nature, it’s the perfect peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Albariño Wine Tasting at Pazo Baión
If you’re a wine lover like me, this one’s for you—especially if you’re into whites. Pazo Baión, a 16th-century estate in the Salnés Valley, is home to some of Galicia’s best Albariño wines. With its 30-hectare vineyard, the estate offers a one-of-a-kind wine-tasting experience. Their Albariño is a crisp, citrusy delight that’s sure to impress.
Road Trips to Do from Santiago de Compostela
How about getting lost on the road after all that cultural enrichment?
As mentioned earlier in this post, Santiago de Compostela’s strategic location makes it the perfect base for exploring other parts of Galicia. So here’s a killer plan: Rent a car for a couple of days and take a day trip to…
Pontevedra and Rías Baixas
Pontevedra is a charming city known for its well-preserved Old Town and relaxed vibe. Half a day is enough to explore this beautiful little city. From there, head into the Rías Baixas region, famous for its stunning estuaries, sandy beaches, and mouthwatering seafood.
Finisterre and Costa da Morte
Here’s Plan B: Make your way to Finisterre, once thought to be the ‘end of the world’ in medieval times. It’s located on the rugged ‘Coast of Death,’ named for the treacherous waters that have claimed many ships over the years, adding a sense of mystery to the region. With its panoramic views of the wild Atlantic, tranquil beaches, and rich maritime history, Finisterre is the perfect spot to connect with Galicia’s natural and cultural heritage.
Ourense and Ribeira Sacra
And lastly, an option completely off the beaten path: Ourense is a rarely visited city known for its hot springs and Roman bridges, offering a relaxing escape. Nearby, the Ribeira Sacra region is still unheard of for most tourists, even many Spaniards. With its deep gorges, ancient monasteries, and terraced vineyards along the Sil and Miño rivers, it’s the perfect place to get lost and never want to be found.
And that’s a wrap on our guide to everything you can see and do in Santiago de Compostela. I’m sure this list will keep you busy for a while, but don’t hesitate to drop a comment if there’s anything we missed!